ND SCR4008

Urges the federal government to refrain from enacting regulations that threaten the reliability and affordability of electric power in North Dakota and to increase support for research, development, and deployment of next-generation carbon-based energy generation.

Cites North Dakota's 800-year supply of lignite coal at current production rates, fourth-lowest energy costs in the nation, and coal industry contribution of $3.4 billion in annual business activity and 15,000 jobs with high wages.

States that current federal regulations represent a de facto ban on construction of new coal-based power plants and threaten continued operation of existing facilities, while giving other electric generation resources competitive advantages.

Requests the federal government withdraw and revise regulations that negatively impact lignite coal utilization, work with the state and industry to develop regulatory programs based on sound science, and increase partnership to develop technological solutions for continued lignite-based electric generation.

Directs the Secretary of State to forward copies of the resolution to the President, EPA Administrator, Secretary of Energy, Secretary of Interior, and all members of the North Dakota Congressional Delegation.